Tempers frayed between Mercedes’ two star-drivers

MERCEDES have issued a clear warning to drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg that any more problems between the pair could result in dropping one of the drivers.

The directive comes from Mercedes sport boss Toto Wolff, who has seen his team thrust into controversial limelight since the collision between the two in the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa on August 24.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Wolff said: “We would have to take decisions and take the consequences of having a different line-up.

“If we are not able to manage the two of them following the Mercedes-Benz spirit then we need to admit that.”

Hamilton suffered a puncture as a result of the collision and had to pull out from the race, giving Rosberg a 29-point lead.

Hamilton was reportedly angry at F1’s governing body FIA’s decision not to investigate the incident any further, although internal disciplinary action was taken against Rosberg by Mercedes.

Wolff added: “When you are managing a team it is very important to keep it balanced.

“I would very much like the penalties we have been implementing to stay within the team because it is just not fair on the driver to discuss that in public.

“We have made it very clear this is an unacceptable scenario for us, for both of them. We don’t want this to happen ever again.”

Rosberg admitted responsibility for the collision and has apologised to Hamilton. He described the relationship between them as a ‘healthy rivalry.’

Hamilton, who is contracted to Mercedes until 2015, has hinted that he would like to extend his stay with the team.

The Italian Grand Prix at Monza will be taking place this weekend.